It's Not You...It's Your Cartier Love Bracelet.
Unique Alternatives To The 'Birkin of Bracelets'
Okay, fine it’s me. I’m the drama!
I realize the title of this post is a rather bold statement but before you break up with me, hear me out. I know it’s early days and our first date was only last Friday, but honesty is important in any relationship. Despite the fact the original Cartier Love bracelet was inspired by real heartbreak, I’m in this relationship for the long haul. Jewelry is my love language after all!
Stop giving me those judgmental looks.
Relax, this isn’t our first fight. I know you were startled by my last post when I said we weren’t buying Cartier Love bracelets in 2025. I’m not judging you for buying or lusting over one. Of course, buying and wearing a piece of jewelry you love should always be celebrated. If that’s the Love bracelet then go for it. However, relationships are about trying new things and we need to broaden our horizons.
How do I say this nicely? Over the past ten years the Cartier Love bracelet has become a little mainstream. There I said it! Okay I feel better. I’m not trying to stir the pot but I’m also the housewife who would bring receipts to the reunion. So let’s start with the facts. In 2016, the iconic Cartier Love bracelet was the most Googled piece of jewelry in the entire world. See where I’m going with this?
Today, whether you love it or hate it, the bracelet has cemented its place in the luxury world as a recognizable status symbol.
Can we move on though?
If you find yourself at Cartier, I’m begging you to explore a little. Contrary to what you might think I actually like Cartier. Many of their pieces, like the Reflection de Cartier watch we spoke about on Friday, are truly exceptional. The Baignoire watch is perfect for everyday. If you gave me five minutes and $78,000 (not including tax) I would come out the store wearing the Panthère de Cartier ring. In reality, I’m more likely to buy the Maillon Panthère ring. If you remember, I already gave up an organ for a corset last week but a girl can dream. Don’t get me started on vintage Cartier. I’ve been fully obsessing over this vintage Cartier Trinity band in yellow and rose gold, adorned with diamonds, rubies and pink sapphires. It was just my birthday, but remind me to send this to my husband.
Before you get upset with me…
My suggestions below are not replicas or dupes. Between us, I don’t believe in that concept. I’ve included a selection of alternatives inspired by the bracelet’s unisexuality and sleek bangle form. For the Love bracelet fans who don’t want to go full cold turkey, I’ve included a few options from luxury jewelry brands. For those who want a bracelet you won’t see on the wrists of everyone you know, keep reading. Or you could just subscribe!
From screws to padlocks, we’re locked in.
Okay, I tried a little pun. In my opinion, the Tiffany & Co Lock bangle is the most obvious alternative. I stacked a few of them on my wrist and found the bangles a bit younger and sleeker than your Cartier favorite. I’ve also seen less of them out and about which can only be a good thing. The Tiffany option has the same stackable, collectible effect without all the hype. A little tea you may not know, but many years ago Aldo Cipullo, the designer of the Cartier Love bracelet worked at Tiffany. They rejected his iconic bracelet design so he left and presented it to Cartier. The rest is history! I love a bit of drama with my jewels.
Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.
Sure, you could buy the Love bracelet but wouldn’t you rather look a little more grown up? If Boucheron’s Quatre Classique were a man he would have attended Le Rosey, be seen in head to toe Loro and ski in Andermatt. He would also buy you Chopard’s Ice Cube geometric bangle as a gift just because.
Subtlety isn’t my strong suit but Dinh Van’s Pulse bracelet and Serrure bracelet say a lot without saying too much. If you want options, Nouvel Heritage has a large collection of bangles. Just, do me a favor and buy the one I like, because we’re still in the dating phase where you’re trying to impress me. Finally, if you prefer The Row over Hermès, Viltier’s Edge bangle is unique without trying too hard. We love that.
The gatekeeper in me didn’t want to share this.
However, since you’ve made it this far, I’ll reward you. Don’t make me regret it! Like me, if you value uniqueness, exclusivity, and custom design look no further than one of my favorite jewelers, Maison Raksha. The Gold White & Black Diamond Pavé bangle bracelet is sure to stand out in a sea of Cartier Love bracelets. What more could I ask for? The Lovers Bangle bracelet in white gold and diamond pavé also has a special place in my heart. Speaking of hearts, I’m not trying to rush in to things but Valentine’s Day is coming up. I can’t promise not to break your heart but I can promise to find you some gorgeous gifts in Friday’s newsletter. Strap in!
Don’t we all feel better now?
I’m glad I got that out my system. I don’t know how Cartier will feel, but thank you for allowing me to be honest. I guess I’ll never know if I swayed you to leave the Cartier Love bracelet in 2024 but I’m happy knowing I tried.
No judgement!
XO XO
Grace
I want to be friends, but I'm afraid for my bank account.
I did not realize people were still buying the Cartier love bracelet (no hate no shade) but I did truly think we’d moved on as a culture